Located at the northernmost point on the A9, Scrabster Braes span approximately 700 metres of road leading towards Scrabster Harbour. The steep slopes in this area are prone to movement, having experienced several landslides over a number of years, and therefore require careful management to ensure this vital route remains open.
Given the elevation and steep profile of the area, it’s likely that landslide events will continue to occur and disrupt this key corner of the trunk road network. BEAR Scotland understands the impact of road restrictions on this section of the A9 and, with an investment from Transport Scotland, are developing short, medium and longer-term solutions to maintain safe and resilient access to the harbour.
Continue reading for more information. Should you have any specific concerns or require further information, please contact NWconsultation@bearscotland.co.uk.
Scrabster Braes has experienced repeated landslide events over the years, impacting the A9 trunk road and nearby harbour operations. Listed below are the most recent events:
The first short‑term repair phase was completed in April 2025, stabilising the hillside in the immediate area of the December 2024 landslide. Techmat, mesh, and soil nails were installed to protect exposed areas and encourage vegetation growth, while the roadside fence and stone wall were reinstated to restore the area and protect the trunk road.
Landslides affecting this vital section of the A9 have a damaging impact on trade and transportation in the north of Scotland, therefore we are taking a pro-active approach to protecting the trunk road and maintaining safe and resilient access to the harbour.
Medium and longer-term solutions are in progress to address wider issues across the hillside and improve the stability of the braes.
As part of this project, BEAR are planning to undertake further repair of the roadside wall at the start of 2026.
The installation of a substantial debris catch fence at the section of the slopes closest to the harbour will carried out from Spring 2026.
BEAR is also considering drainage improvements above the slope, which will divert water away from the slope to avoid it become saturated which leads to landslides. The works being considered include a basin at the top of the slope which would collect water during storm conditions and then allows the volume of water to be released at a slower, steady pace once the storm passes, alleviating drainage issues. The programme of this work will be confirmed following appropriate consultation with affected parties.
Our longer-term solution will focus on installing soil nails and selective planting of native species on the slopes to further protect the area. We will consult and collaborate extensively with landowners, local groups and landscape architects to ensure planting is in accordance with the natural environmental of the area, maximising the biodiversity benefits of our project. This work will require considerable ground investigation, design and certification and the implementation programme will depend on available budget. More information on this will be released as the preparatory work progresses.
Updated 24 March 2025: The end date for landslide repairs on the A9 Scrabster slopes has now been confirmed as Friday 25 April. Please see added date below in red. Works start Tuesday 25 March until Friday 25 April BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, is set
Within a few miles of the most northerly point of the UK mainland, Scrabster Braes on the A9 is a vital route within the North West trunk road network. It gives access to numerous local businesses, the vital RNLI lifeboat station, and the ferry port at Scrabster Harbour that links
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